Justin Trudeau acknowledges the importance of co-operatives during Co-op Week

The final week of the federal election coincided with this year’s Co-op Week celebrations. The Liberal leader took the opportunity to recognize the importance of the co-operative sector. "The Co-op Week is an opportunity to highlight the important role of co-operatives in our economy and our communities across the country" stated the prime minister designate by way of press release.

The statement emphasized the important role of co-operative enterprises in distinctive job creators and economic engines for people in rural communities. “These innovative enterprises create jobs and contribute to regional economies where private businesses would not see the desired returns on equity – particularly in rural areas.”

The message also promoted the Liberal platform commitment to renew current co-operative housing agreements, and provide operational funding support for municipalities. The Liberal election platform includes many areas of interest to co-operatives, for a summary of those shared interests please read our report.

The Liberal leader was the only party leader to issue a message celebrating Co-op Week in the middle of the busy campaign. The subsequent majority victory by the Liberal Party suggests that co-operators across the country took note and rewarded Trudeau with their support.